70

My mom is celebrating her birthday this week and my sisters and I threw her a "Ladie's Lunch" this past Saturday. I was so impressed by how many friends she has, and the quality of friends they are. But if anyone deserves good friends, it's my mom. She is one of the most loyal, kind, bend-over-backwards types of friends, and, as she tried to instill in me from childhood- the only way to have good friends is to be a good friend. She is a shining example.

My mom and dad met at Ohio State where my mom was a Biology major. It was because of her chosen field that my dad gave her the nickname, "Froggy." (As in the lab frogs soaking in formaldehyde.) Ever since, my mom's house has been decked in various stuffed and jeweled frogs. I saw this idea in Parent and had to make them for her.

In the article they used fruit by the foot as tongues and spearmint gummies cut out as feet, but I couldn't find either. The eyes are made of apple rings and junior mints. The smiles are made of pull-apart twizzlers. They couldn't be simpler to make, and they are so adorable!

My mom is 70 this year. Obviously she is a fountain of information and advice, but here are a few things I've learned from her that are sticking out in my mind right now.

• Wear sunscreen!
• Patience is the password.
• You can either laugh or cry...so laugh.
• "If someone is being mean to you, buy them an ice-cream cone." Meaning- Take the time to understand where they are coming from. Never sink to their level. ALWAYS remain kind and try to give them the benefit of the doubt. Don't take things personally.
• If someone is truly hurtful and destructive- still be nice, but try not to waste your time on them. Life is too short to spend with people who aren't interested in lifting you up.
• If you're sad, serve someone.
• Don't hesitate to go to the doctor if something is wrong.
• Take your vitamins.
• Exercise daily.
• If you're having trouble sleeping, read your scriptures. "You'll be asleep in no time."
• She taught me how to clean a bathroom properly.
• She taught me how to use herbs and spices in everyday foods.
• Always read to your children before bed.
• "Have faith."
• "Pray every, single day."
• There is no shame in seeking psychological help. There's a lot to be said for talking to someone who is qualified.
• If you're in a position to travel- do it.
• She taught me the importance of relaxing- and working hard.
• Smiling creates less wrinkles than frowning, and it makes you feel better.
• Even if you don't have time for the rest, always wear lipstick. (or lip gloss, in my case.)
• Learn something new every day. Read constantly, and don't waste your time with the "Boob Tube."
• She taught me how to love wholeheartedly. She was a perfect example of hugging, and squeezing, and kissing and verbal affirmations.
• She taught me the meaning of the word, "Tough." As in, "Tough- you're going to do it anyway." And I'm so thankful she did.
• The importance of Birthdays. As far as I know, my mom has never been caught saying, "Oh- I'm another year older. I don't want to celebrate my birthday." She embraces her age, and shares gratitude for her health. She also always makes a big fuss about her kids' birthdays. I had some of the best birthday parties growing up.
• Listen to the holy spirit. He is there to guide you.
• Even if you're scared- do it anyway.
• Always be thankful for your blessings.
• Watch out for pride masked as humility.
• Always check your calendar first.
• Use Preparation H on the bags under your eyes. After all, the stuff is intended to shrink...things.
• Learn from the horrible things that have happened in the past, and then let that part of your past go. Don't carry it with you moving forward.
• And when you're looking toward the future, be as optimistic as possible.
• She taught me unconditional love.

Janet